Happy New Year from all of us at Isledegrande and deSignet Jewelry. Wishing you a healthy and happy 2016!

In her first game with the UB bulls, junior Cassie Oursler had a team-high 12 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks, helping to beat Sacred Heart in Fairfield, CT 66-53 on Tuesday, December 29th. Cassie transferred from Robert Morris after playing there as a freshman and two games as a sophomore. The Bulls are 8-3.

The Inauguration of the newly elected officials will take place on Friday, January 1, 2016 at 12:00p.m. (noon) at the Buffalo Launch Club, 503 East River Road, Grand Island. To be inaugurated are Nathan D. McMurray - Supervisor, Patricia A. Frentzel - Town Clerk, Michael H. Madigan - Councilman, Beverly A. Kinney - Councilwoman and Sybil E. Kennedy - Town Justice. Phil Buchanan will serve as MC. The ceremony will be followed with a coffee, juice and light refreshments. All are invited to attend.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Isledegrande and deSignet Jewelry. Wishing you a healthy and happy 2016!

The GIHS has continued an annual tradition of a Yuletide lip dub music video. Watch the students and teachers rendition of Sleigh Ride by Johnny Mathis.

I'm feeling really bad for the foster mom of Lollie, the missing dog. Lollie is a street dog from the Bahamas who is on the lam and has been spotted all over the Island. She seems to want to be free. I don't know what the answer is, but this poor women has spent the last week pounding the pavement trying to get this dog back to no avail. Can you imagine, throwing a lost dog into the mix of trying to get ready for the holidays, take care of your children and work?
An Island resident wrote in today, Wednesday, December 23rd, "I saw a dog fitting this description on 190 north as I crossed bridge from Grand Island to NF in grass median...in Niagara Falls. I tried to circle back but dog was gone. Just wanted someone to know that dog might not be on Island anymore."

The installation of the Lake Erie-Niagara River Ice Boom was delayed last week by an unexplained weather issue.??? The 1.7 mile long boom was installed this morning, Wednesday, December 23rd. For everything you ever wanted to know about the ice boom, check out the information sheet and ice boom view.

Garbage pickup is delayed one day for Christmas Day and New Year's Day Holidays.

Island Ship Center will be closing at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 24th and reopen on Monday, December 28th at 8:30 a.m.

In case you missed it on the front page...the GI Memorial Library is starting new hours in January. Check out the NEW 2016 Hours.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

A very special happy 15th birthday to Nicholas Carey from mom Kim Carey on Sunday, December 20th!

Congratulations go to to GIHS soccer player Troy Brady named Boys Player of the Year by the Western New York Soccer Coaches at their banquet on Tuesday, December 15th. Also to GIHS Coach Frank Butcher, named Boys Coach of the Year.

Check out The Clay Cafe in the Grand Island Plaza. Melanie and Justin Mckenney have a thriving business selling their popular vegetabowls, dishes molded from fruits and vegetables. Now they have opened a studio where you can paint pottery, enjoy clay classes and private parties. For a sneak peek, go to their website, www.islandclaycafe.com.

If you're looking for gifts for the holidays, think about patronizing our advertisers in the right hand, yellow column. Their advertising dollars keep Isledegrande free from subscription fees.

Ellden's at River Oaks, 201 Whitehaven Road, is hosting a pancake breakfast on Sunday, December 20th from 10am-1pm, and all proceeds will benefit the Neighbors Foundation. A donation of $5 is requested for breakfast.

Isledegrande will be posted on Wednesdays for the next three weeks due to the holidays and a vacation. If you have information you would like posted, please email by Tuesday noon to have it included for that weeks edition. Thank you!

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The Grand Island High School basketball teams were written up in today's Niagara Gazette and both teams are expected to have a great season.
The girls are 5-0 and have Dakaylah Winfield back on the team after she spent last year playing for Cleve Hill. The girls will play at Lew-Port on Friday night at 6:30 p.m. See article. The boys are led by soccer standouts Joe Kulikowski and Garrett Robinson, are 2-2 and play Lew-Port at home on Friday at 6:30 p.m. See article.

Over the winter, a wrestling club is open to children from 5-14 years old. It is on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:00pm in the upper gym at the high school, and runs through March 30th. You can sign up at the class, the registration fee is $75.00.

The GIHS class of 1976 40th reunion schedule has been set. A three hour boat cruise on the Grand Lady will take place on Sunday, July 3rd from 6-9pm. After the cruise, everyone is invited to gather at the All Class Reunion at Island Lanes. See details.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

A Town proclamation was presented to the 2015 Boys Viking Soccer team at the joint School/Town Board meeting on Monday, November 30th. The team ended their season at the NYS Championship tournament semi-finals with a record of 19-20-1, 1st in Western New York. This was the first year the boys team participated at the state level. Congratulations!!!

The GIHS class of 1966 sent in their reunion invitation this week. The 50th reunion will take place over the July 4th weekend. A dinner dance will be held on Saturday, July 2nd, all class reunion at Island Lanes on Sunday, July 3rd and picnic at the VFW on July 4th after the parade. See invite.

The past month has brought a half dozen donations into Isledegrande and for that we are thankful. Isledegrande does not charge for obituary postings, happy news, organization news or even supscriptions! The following went that extra step and showed their appreciation. Many thanks to GI American Legion, Marlene Whitfield, Earl DeGlopper, Janet Pedlow, Joe Synakowski and Mike Endres.

Congratulations to the Biondi family on opening their second Baked Cupcakery store. They are located in the Village of Williamsville at 5428 Main Street and are open Tuesday - Saturday.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The GIHS Class of 1986 30th Reunion will be held on July 2, 2016 at River Oaks. Check out the Facebook page. Contact Marijane Smith at tmjers@gmail.com.

Mike Costello has taken over a tavern business in the heart of Youngstown. The Stone Jug is located in the 1824-era Ontario House building at Main and Lockport streets. Mike grew up on Grand Island and has owned Lakewood Landscaping, based in Youngstown, since 1985. He and his family and friends have been busy renovating the roof, putting in new bathrooms and updating the kitchen facilities of the old building. Plans are in the works to renovate rooms on the second and third floors for overnite stays. Mike has been a regular at the Jug since he moved off Island, back in 1979. The previous owner Ed Wojcik's family owned it for 83 years. It's about a 20 minute ride and a trip back in time!

Kelly's Country Store, 3121 Grand Island Blvd. is stocked with Christmas trees that will be available for purchase on Friday, November 27th from 10am-9pm daily. proceeds from the tree sales will benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Santa also arrives Friday for visits from 6-9pm Monday-Wednesday & Friday and noon - 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Remember to SHOP SMALL on Saturday....the official buy local event is celebrating its 5th anniversary. Check out the advertising list in the right hand column and grab some gifts from our sponsors. Isledegrande has the advertisers and readers donations to thank for keeping us in business.

Check out the online pet product store offered by Islander Dr. Melissa Mroziak You can save time and money by ordering your pet products through her online store and Missy donates 25 percent of all net profits, every quarter, to a non-profit organization. Some of the organizations have included Miracle League, Heart and Soul, Wounded Warrior Project and Relay For Life Grand Island. See her web page here with link to the online store. I just had my Heartguard delivered free within 3 days of ordering.

Looking for something to do this weekend? Canalside ice opened on Monday for the season. You can skate, ride the ice bike or try curling.
See website for hours. Also, after dark, check out the light show on the grain elevators.
The lights can be viewed until 11pm each evening.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Congratulations to Lexi and Grace Fredericks upon signing letters of intent to swim for Division I Central Connecticut State University. The twin sisters have been swimming for Mount St. Mary's during their high school years.

Hair Envy Salon at the Grand Island Plaza offered free haircuts to Veterans on Veterans Day. Cathy Fancher is the owner of the salon and said they plan on making it an annual event. Nice job!

Hold off on your holiday shopping! Small Business Saturday is on November 28th. This is a national effort, started in 2010 by American Express, to drive consumers to shop at local independently owned businesses. For every $100 spent at local, small business, $68 goes back into the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures.

Speaking of the holidays...the Neighbors Foundation Share Your Happiness Campaign needs your help. Check out the story and see if you can make a difference.

Thermo Fisher is Hiring! They have 30+ full time manufacturing positions available with great benefits. See the flyer for details.

Calico the cat was gone for a week and returned home on Monday night. I told the owner you don't hear happy endings with lost cats very often!

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Thanks to Town Cafe for generously providing free meals to veterans on Veterans Day. Owner Lynn Quarentello said when her family opened the restaurant 13 years ago, veterans from the VFW were her biggest supporters. The free meals were a way of thanking the vets for their bravery while protecting our country.

Grand Island made the good list! The district had one of the lowest child obesity rates in the area at 25.7 percent, just behind Orchard Park, 25.5 percent and Hamburg, 25.6 percent. Other comparable districts are Clarence, 28.3 percent; Williamsville, 28.5 percent and Amherst, 28.6 percent.

You will be able to see GIHS alumni Cassie Oursler play basketball this year at the University of Buffalo. She has transferred from Robert Morris and will be hitting the court December 29th.

Remember, you can watch the school board meetings from the comfort of your own home. See BOE-11-9-15.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The annual Veterans Day service will be held at Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Park at Baseline and Grand Island Blvd. instead of Veterans Park this year. The Grand Island VFW and American Legion posts will have a special project announcement at the service.The service takes place on Wednesday, November 11th at 11:00 a.m.

The Vikings Boys Soccer team has been ranked No. 1 in New York State since October 4th, has not been scored upon since October 3rd and just won their 18th game in a row. They are Class A Section 6 champs and will take on Honeoye Falls at Spencerport High School, a Rochester suburb, on Friday night. The team bus leaves GI at 1:30 pm for the game. A spectator bus will be leaving the school at 5:00 p.m.
Good luck guys!!!

The question of who will be Grand Island Supervisor will go unanswered for two more weeks. A letter from the Erie County Board of Elections lists Wednesday, November 18th as the date the final canvass will begin. Dale Anderson of the Buffalo News reported 146 absentee ballots are up for grabs.

The always positive Fahim Mojawalla is taking orders for what every baby Buffalo sports fan needs. The bibs are $6.99 and pre-orders will be taken until November 15th. Island Ship Center will be closed on Saturday, November 7th for continuing shipping education and Veterans Day hours are 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

I had a visit from a former Islander this week. Wendy Card is a 1985 graduate of GIHS and after retiring from the military, started an online newspaper in New Bern, NC, New Bern Now.com. She mentioned she was inspired by former Isledegrande Editor Teddy Linenfelser after reading our news over the years. Wendy's mantra is "promote not demote", which is what Isledegrande has always tried to do.

At the Ground Breaking of the Sandy Beach Park Club living shoreline this week, Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper Executive Director noted, 95% of the world's fresh water flows around Grand Island. This project is the first of many planned by the Riverkeepers and should be complete by Spring 2016. To learn more about living shorelines, click here.

The Grand Island Recreation Department and the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce are having a "Holiday Light Display Contest". All Island residents and businesses are invited to compete in two categories, the "Classic" and the "Contemporary". Entry forms must be sent to the Recreation Department before December 9th to qualify. Judging will take place December 11 & 12th from 8:00 -11:00 p.m.
See flyer for complete details and for registration form.

Long time advertiser, the Town Cafe, 2352 Grand Island Blvd., has plenty to tantalize your taste buds. Check out the ad, lower left corner. The "Jodi Robinson Special Salad" was created by Nick Rossi and "ooh it's so good"?

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The Grand Island Lady Vikings soccer team beat Cheektowaga in the Class A pre-quarterfinal on Tuesday, October 20th at home by a score of 7-0. Junior Madisyn Pezzino broke the Grand Island High School career goals record with a hat trick, making her total 170 goals. The school record was previously held by Jessica Remmes at 168 in 2005. The other goals were scored by Marcy Berberic - 2, Giana Aiello -1 and Kelsey Harrigan -1. The #1 Lady Vikings (16-1-0)) will take on #9 Hamburg (7-7-1)) today at Gene Masters Field at approximately 6pm.

A whole bunch of political candidates signs were removed or damaged around Town on Saturday night/Sunday morning last weekend. Many were found in a dumpster at the Village Inn on Ferry Road. The signs above were damaged at McMahon's Family Restaurant. My good neighbor Chuck Berlinger came to the rescue of Bev Kinney and pieced a large sign back together with packing tape. You're the best Chuck!

GI Recreation Department and GIHS Art Club are presenting the "Isle of Spooky fun", Saturday, Oct. 24th at the Nike Base, for children. See poster. They are also presenting the "Isle of Horrors", Saturday & Sunday, Oct. 24 & 25th. See poster. This for for teens and adults only.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy Anniversary to Renee & Mike Driskell, married on October 19, 2013.
Happy golden+ anniversary to Carol & Gary Roesch on October 20th and to Sue & Dan McMahon, also on October 20th, married over 40 years!
Celebrating anniversaries on October 21st are Earl & Rita DeGlopper and Jacquie & Patrick Foote. Congratulations everyone!!!

Buffalo News reporter Miguel Rodriguez named the GIHS boys and girls soccer teams to his "Power 10 for Oct. 14" stating, "#5. Grand Island soccer. Both boys and girls teams clinch Niagara Frontier League titles with time to spare. Boys ranked first in state, girls fourth." This is the first time the boys' team has been ranked #1 in the state. Lady Viking Madisyn Pezzino is one goal shy of the school record.

The Grand Island Lions Club, Isledegrande.com and the Island Dispatch/PennySaver are sponsoring a Meet the Candidate's Night today, October 15th at 7:00 p.m. at Kaegebein School Auditorium. The audience will be able to submit questions. Please arrive by 6:30 p.m. to do so. The Lions Club is asking for donations of no longer used eyeglasses, wheelchairs and walkers.

Click for larger view

Check out the GIHS Gene Masters Field with the track installed. Kevin and Dawn Cobello of K & D Action photo have been very generous with their time and services in taking great overhead shots of Island life. Due to the nasty weather forcast, the Grand Island Alumni Association will postpone the scheduled check presentation tomorrow evening at Masters Field.

The Grand Island Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary Annual Chowder Sale is Saturday, October 17, 2015 at fire headquarters. Chowder will be ready at 11:00 a.m. Pre-orders will be taken by contacting Darcey - 907-3002. Bring your own containers!

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Best wishes to my little sister, Dana Hayes Foote, on her marriage to Ross Erickson on Saturday, October 10th in Branson, MO! We are road tripping out to join the festivities, so will be out of the office until Tuesday.

Congrat's to GIHS senior diver Allison DeMartin. Allison is undefeated this season and achieved her personal best score of 213.45 on Tuesday night against Lockport, defeating Julia LaRose (Lockport), by a tenth of a point.

The Grand Island Lions Club, Isledegrande.com and the Island Dispatch/PennySaver are sponsoring a Meet the Candidate's Night on Thursday, October 15th at 7:00 p.m. at Kaegebein School Auditorium. The audience will be able to submit questions. Please arrive by 6:30 p.m. to do so. The Lions Club is asking for donations of no longer used eyeglasses, wheelchairs and walkers.

Get your tickets fast to the GI Historical Society Holiday Luncheon, Christmas in the Country. They are scheduled for Monday, November 30, Tuesday, December 1 and Friday, December 4th at noon. Cost is $25. Reservations may be made by calling Sue at 773-5313.

For a unique gift, check out the Grand Island Jewelry & Gifts page at DeSignet Jewelry's website. There are charms, pendants, earrings, ornaments, bracelets and more!

The Grand Island Alumni Association will be presenting a check to Jon Roth at the Homecoming football game on Friday, October 16th at Gene Masters Field at half-time. Money was raised at last fall's opening of the football field at "Friday Night Under the Lights." Some of the money was already spent cushion wrapping 50 more yards of fencing on the home side. After the game, alumni are invited to gather at Ellden's at River Oaks to reminisce.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Congratulations to the GIHS Boys and Girls Soccer teams! So far this season they both have an undefeated record in the NFL at 10-0-0.

A Lawn Mower Race will take place at Veterans Park on Saturday, October 24th at 2:30 p.m. to benefit the Grand Island Little League. Racing starts at 3:30 p.m. There will be refreshments available to purchase, entertainment, drawings and flu shots. Fee is $10 per mower, no pre-registration is required.

WIVB reporter George Richert did a story on September 29th regarding the planned Holiday Inn Express at the Hooker Chemical/Dunlop Tire building on Long Road. See story.

You can view the most recent GI Central School District School Board Meeting from September 28th here.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Rotary Club of Buffalo is hosting a youth exchange student from France that will be attending Grand Island High School for the 2015-16 school year. They are looking for 2-3 host families to assist us in hosting him during the school year for 3-4 months. If you have the ability to assist, please contact Laurie Albertsson at laurie.rotaryexchange@gmail.com.

Kaegebein School has announced starting Monday, September 28th, busses will arrive and depart from the back doors. Students driven to school will use the front doors.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The GIHS first home game of 2015 is under the lights on Friday, September 18th at 7pm.
Grand Island (2-0) vs. Starpoint (2-0). Last week Grand Island beat Williamsville East 16-8 and
Starpoint is coming off a first time win over Sweethome and has never won at Grand Island. Who will be more PUMPED!!!! Vikings of course!

Congratulations to long time advertisers Dan & Sandi Clark of Sandi's Family Restaurant in Niagara Falls. Their daughter Lindsey was crowned Peach Festival Queen on Sunday, September 13th in Lewiston.

The property formerly known as the Dunlop Building is in the midst of asbestos abatement. After an okay from the Planning Board on Monday, September 14th, phase one of Grand Island Hotels, LLC property conversion plan has begun. The abatement should be complete by October 30th and the PMJ Construction Company will begin to turn the eyesore into a 100 room hotel. The project is scheduled to be complete in May of 2016. See plans and renderings here.

Not much to be learned at a workshop meeting held at Town Hall on Tuesday, September 15th regarding the Gus Macker. Most attendees agreed that the event was enjoyed by the participants and spectators. Parking on the streets was an issue at times with parking tickets written for some cars on Whitehaven, east of GI Blvd. and on Baseline, south of Whitehaven. A representative from the NFTA reported normal traffic by the buses coming and going. There were no security issues that occurred during the event. There was some correspondence read from local businesses that were not in favor as they either closed during the event or incurred expenses for security and extra staff.

Island Tid-Bits...
Congratulations to Coach Ben Gallegos and the GIHS JV girls soccer team. On Thursday, September 10th, the team won their 50th straight game!
Sadly, Adrian's Custard and Beef closed last Saturday.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy anniversary to Judy & Bob Schmidt (50th!!!!) on September 11th and to Mike and Sandy Beauchamp on September 15th.

The final count in the week long survey, "Are you in favor of Gus Macker returning?" ended up as you see above.

There are two upcoming events looking for venders in the next couple months. St. Stephen School Shopping Extravaganza is November 1st. Call Kim Nemeth at 716-773-3331, 716-481-3746 or email kimneme@gmail.com for details. The Taste of Grand Island is October 3rd. see flyer.

An informational meeting is next Tuesday, September 15th, regarding the West River Greenway Connector Trail/Bike Path. It is at the Town Hall Second Floor Lobby from 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. See map & flyer.

The Citizen Science Community Resources (CSCR) group is hosting a conference and meeting regarding the history and updates of the recent actions at Tonawanda Coke.
The event is open to the public and will take place on Saturday, September 19th at 169 Sheridan-Parkside Drive, Tonawanda from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. See Press Release for more details.

Island Tid-Bits...
An Electronics Recycling Day is planned for Saturday, September 12th from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., at the GM Tonawanda Engine Plane #1. See flyer.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy anniversary to David and Carol Dusenbury on September 8th and to Butch & Julie Meyer on September 9th.

Casaba Melon bowl

Justin and Melanie Mckenney live on Grand Island and have been getting a lot of press lately regarding their pottery business. They make serving pieces directly cast from fruits and vegetables and the Buffalo News ran a story August 29th, see here. Their wares have been featured in many magazines including Oprah, Cooking Light, doityourself, Woman's Day and more. Check out their website.

Courtney Donovan and her team MCMB were top court champions at the Gus Macker last weekend. The team also received the Sportsmanship award. Congratulations ladies!

FYI: I know there is a spelling error on the front page, Gus Macker poll, but I can't fix it without starting over, so.....it's staying!

Relay For Life Co-Chair Lynn Dingey announced yesterday that the Grand Island Relay page is up and running. You can sign up now for Relay 2016, scheduled for Friday, June 10th at 4:00 p.m. at Veterans Park. See webpage.

The first Viking football game against Kenmore East scheduled for tomorrow, September 4th is cancelled due to a shortage of players at Kenmore East. It will be regarded as a forfeit and will not be rescheduled. Buffalo News reporter Miguel Rodriguez has a nice write-up on the Class A North football teams in todays edition. See here.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Otsego, Michigan is also having their first Gus Macker Tournament this weekend. The city has just under 4000 residents and is located in the lower portion of western Michigan. Their tournament is hosting 301 teams and a local tv station article reported they expect 8 to 10 thousand spectators.

Congratulations to the One Island, One Team Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition on being chosen to receive the Community Partnership Award at the Erie County Council for the Prevention of Alcohol and Substance Abuse's Annual Meeting Luncheon. The group wrote, "You were chosen as the recipient of this award due to the tireless work you've done in the community, for your collaborations with local community members, and for making your neighborhood a safer place!"

I received an email from Vacations Made Easy this week. On a blog for lifestyle and travel, they listed Grand Island KOA as being one of 15 of New York's best Labor Day camping spots. They also mentioned that Buffalo is an hour southeast of Grand Island. Of course I set them straight, but at last look, they didn't correct it. See list.

Currents Restaurant at Byblos Niagara, 100 Whitehaven, is open and serving breakfast (6:30am-10:30am), Sunday Brunch (11:00am-2:00pm) and dinner (5:00pm-9:00pm) daily. The bar is open Sunday-Thursday (5:00pm-11:00pm) and Friday/Saturday (5:00pm-1:00am). That view never gets old!

The McMahon Family Fundraiser will be held on Saturday, August 29th at the restaurant, 1849 Grand Island Blvd. from noon - 4:00 p.m. There will be music, a basket raffle, bounce house, vendors, wheel barrel of cheer raffle and food.

Island Tid-Bits...
Congratulations to long time GICSD Transportation employee Theresa Alizadahon on her appointment as Supervisor of Transportation. Theresa is replacing Jack Burns who retired after 33 years of service.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The Buffalo News had a story over the weekend about an injured Great Blue Heron. It was found at the Tonawanda Water Treatment plant and had a broken tongue bone. After spending two weeks at the SPCA in Tonawanda, it was released at Buckhorn State Park on Friday, August 14th. See photos.

After the big uproar at the Town Board meeting on Monday, August 17th, much due to mis-information, the following files may be of interest to you.

A workshop meeting for the Gus Macker was held this morning at Town Hall. As of today, 260 teams (1040 players) are signed up for the event. The boulevard will be closed down at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28th for set-up and re-open on Sunday, August 30th after 3:00 p.m. Opening ceremonies begin at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday and games start at 8:30 a.m. each day. There will be 16 security officers on Saturday and 12 on Sunday watching over the courts, commons and nearby parking areas. The Town Police Department will have 6 officers working the event and the Sheriff's Department and NYS Police will have at least 2 officers covering any Island issues. This is a fun family event with food vendors in the Town Commons, along with a kid zone and merchandise vendors. As this is our first time at the Macker rodeo, erring on the side of caution is the plan. Paid parking will be available at Mallwitz's Island Lanes, Trinity U.M.C. and Knight's of Columbus.

A fundraiser for Matt Brennan for medical expenses is planned for Saturday, August 22nd from 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Road. Basket Raffle, door prizes, 50/50, food and drink included. See flyer. You can also help by making donations at the Go Fund Me page.

Island Tid-Bits...
Whitehaven Road Baptist Church is celebrating 100 years by hosting "Family Fun Friday" on August 21st from 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. There will be children's activities, music, worship, food and more.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Marshall Cancilla sculpture of David.

Grand Island was well represented at the 2015 Lewiston Art Festival last weekend. The Grand Island High School Chalk Walk team again took first place. The team consists of Alexis Hy, Lavepreet Kaur, Kelsey Mahoney & Megan Gaiek (instructor). Third place in the sculpture division went to Marshall Cancilla with "The Giant Will Fall" and honorable mention in the Artistic Craft: Other, to JoAnn Vanderheite - "Belly Dancer". Congratulations to all!

Thunder on the Niagara will be Saturday and Sunday, August 15 & 16 at Gratwick Park in North Tonawanda. The event is free, except for onsite parking ($10), and takes place from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The director of the event is GI's own Gary Roesch. Also involved as primary sponsor for the third year is Tom Snyder Jr. of Snyder Industries.

The Village Inn is having a "Party in the Yard" on Sunday, August 16th from 3:00-8:00 p.m. There will be music, and food and beverages available for purchase. Authentic Vibe will play from 3:00-5:00 p.m., featuring Steve Parisi and a Beatles cover band will play from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Island Tid-Bits...
The front parking lot of the high school will be closed from 8/14 to 8/21. Students and families who need to access the high school should do so via the back parking lot.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

A special happy birthday was sent in for Traffic Safety Board Member, Dorothy Bitner. She is celebrating a "big one" on August 11th.

The Town of Grand Island is seeking interested individuals to volunteer for the ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY BOARD, and an alternate to the PLANNING BOARD. Any member of the community who is interested in serving should submit a letter of interest, and a resume including relevant experience, education or training to Town Supervisor Mary S. Cooke, 2255 Baseline Road, Grand Island, New York 14072 or by email to townboard@grand-island.ny.us. Information received by 5:00 pm. on Monday, August 24, 2015 will be considered. For additional information contact any member of the Town Board.

Tammy Kessner has been channeling her inner artist by creating an "Animated mashup mural and Up Driveway Art".
She wrote: "if you can't beat the heat, join it!" You can see her work at 1163 Baseline Road.

Save the date...the Chamber of Commerce "Light Up the Blvd." Electric Parade and Festival will be held on Saturday, November 21st from 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. There will also be a 1K Rudolph Run that starts at 5:00 p.m., with the parade to follow. Watch for the 3rd annual Chamber "30 Days of Giveaways" online contest, starting on October 30th at midnight.

Island Tid-Bits...
A free Friday night concert featuring "Hair Nation" at the Town Commons from 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7th. Food & beverages will be available for purchase.
FYI: If you don't know much about the Gus Macker tournament headed this way, take a quick read on the background and objectives of the event.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy anniversary to Marie & Tom Long on August 1st and to Amber & Frank Penque on August 2nd.

Time for the 4th Annual Say Cheese golf tournament. Last year the tournament raised $2,000 for Down Syndrome Parent Group of WNY. They will be playing at Beaver Island, Monday August 24th, a 11am shotgun start. It will be $75 per person and include: Golf, Cart, Dinner and 3 Hours Open Bar. Sign up at Say Cheese.

Grand Island High School students and teachers dazzle once again at the 2015 GIHS Talent Show, presented by the Class of 2016. An amazing variety of acts includes a band, singers, dancers, piano players, baton twirlers, hula-hooping, guitar playing, comedy act, rapping, and mind-blowing magic, all performed in the Grand Viking Theater!! See video.

A fundraiser for Matt Brennan is planned on Saturday, August 22nd at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club. Check out his story and see if you can help a young man fight a horrible disease.

Island Tid-Bits...
Thermo Fisher Scientific is having a job fair on August 19th & 20th at 3175 Staley Road. There are quite a few openings available. See our jobs page for details.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Congratulations to Grand Island School Superintendent Dr. Teresa Lawrence, named one of Business First's 2015 Women of Influence in the Inspiration category. Inspiration honors women leaders who, through their words, actions and attitude, inspire those who work with and around them. The awards ceremony and luncheon are planned for Thursday, September 17th at the Grapevine Banquet Center.

Fahim Mojawalla of Island Ship Center has become an official UPS Authorized Shipping Outlet. Hard to believe that it took eight years of applying and being denied by UPS to finally make it official. UPS formerly maintained that Island Ship Center was located too close to the Niagara Falls UPS Store. So all this time, Fahim has had to pay for weekly pickup charges and insurance. After attending a Shipper's Expo in Las Vegas in June, Fahim joined AMBC (Associated Mail & Business Centers) and they helped him achieve his long awaited status. Check out the
story on his website for more details.

Jim Ehde and his company Grand Island Waste Management, got the call over the weekend to pump out a 164 foot, 42 million dollar yacht, named WABI SABI, at the Erie Basin Marina. Jim reports that the crew was not allowed to answer any questions, nor was Jim's company allowed to touch the yacht. The crew did all the hook-ups and Jim emptied the yacht.

A fundraiser for the McMahon Family will take place at the McMahon Family Restaurant, 1849 Grand Island Blvd. on Saturday, August 29th from noon - 4:00 p.m. Baskets are needed for the raffle. If you can help call 523-1071 or drop off donations at Mallwitz's Island Lanes.

Island Tid-Bits...
Business First had a list of poverty levels in 50 towns and cities in Western New York, lowest to highest. Grand Island came in the 11th spot with a rate of 6.09%, 1,237 people below poverty level.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

www.oldboatsbuffalo.org website reports that the 38th Annual Antique Boat Show will be held in downtown Buffalo in conjunction with the Buffalo Maritime Festival on Friday and Saturday, September 11 & 12th. The wooden boats will be displayed at the Inner Harbor and the Vintage Hydroplanes will be at the Outer Harbor. It should be bigger and better than ever as a two-day event.

1995 GIHS graduate Dipak Srinivasan is involved with the New Horizons spacecraft successful flyby of Pluto. Check out his story on WGRZ TV.

A public hearing regarding the "Tourist Home" in residential neighborhoods is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. on Monday, July 20th at the Town Hall Courtroom. You can look at the full, five page amendment to the Town Code here. The law clarifies that, short-term rental, transient rental and tourist home are not permitted within Town residential districts. There will be a one-year amortization period for properties acting as such, from date of amendment.

Thunder of Niagara Air Show is Saturday and Sunday, July 18 & 19 at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. The United States Air Force Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team and several military and civilian air performers will participate. There will also be displays, aircraft tours and concessions. Gates open at 9:00 a.m. and flying starts after the opening ceremonies at 11:00 a.m. General admission vehicles and motorcycles can enter at the Tuscarora Road gate on the west or the Walmore Road gate on the east side of the base. Handicapped parking is available at the main gate on Lockport Road.

Island Tid-Bits...Donna Tomkins has been named general chairperson of the 57th Annual Porter Cup at Niagara Falls Country Club taking place July 28th - August 1st.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The Gus Macker basketball tournament is a go after the Town Board voted 3-1 in favor, allowing the event to proceed as planned for the weekend of August 29 & 30. Officially, Corey McGowan has to produce a contract with Rural Metro Ambulance Service and update the Operations Plan, which he said was no problem. Councilman Gary Roesch was the dissenting vote, noting he was not comfortable with the Sheriff's Department and NYS Police being tied up that weekend with other activities. The normal weekend crew will be on duty patrolling the Island and 20 security officers are being hired to oversee the tournament.

You can participate in "two great ways to save in the garden". For the month of July, you can pre-order (checks only) a rain barrel and/or compost bin (order form), thanks to Erie County, the Town of Tonawanda Environment Commission and the WNY Stormwater Coalition. See story.

A free Friday night concert featuring "Wasted Whiskey" is at the Town Commons from 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. on Friday, July 10th. Food & beverages will be available for purchase.

Island Tid-Bits...
The Grand Island High School Cross Country team will wash your car at Adrian's Custard and Beef, 2335 Grand Island Blvd., Thursday, July 16th from noon - 4pm. See flyer.
The Parks Department is doing summer repairs at Veterans Park. Please respect the closure notices.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Congratulations to Paul & Marian Ianni, recently celebrating 75 years of marriage. They were married June 10, 1940 in Niagara Falls. Congrats also to Michael & Christine (Utz) Davis, married June 13, 2015 at Niagara University Chapel.

You can help the Grand Island Co-Op Nursery School win a $25,000 prize in the Wells Fargo Works Project contest.
The school is looking to increase class sizes and hours, and hire more staff in the next two - five years.
Vote here.

Nancy Buckley Valone asks GIHS Class of 1966 grads to send your contact information (address and email), to valonen@yahoo.com. The 50th reunion is in the planning stages for next year.

The GIHS bicentennial class of 1976 has also started planning a reunion for next year, at this time. The Grand Lady boat has been reserved for a three hour cruise on the evening of Sunday, July 3rd. Email Maureen MacGuire Kielt with your address and email at maureen.macguirekielt@gmail.com.

There will be a public hearing on Monday, July 20th for the purpose of hearing comments regarding the creation of a Historic Preservation Ordinance for the Town of Grand Island. At this time, the owners of historic properties are unable to qualify for grants without this type of local ordinance. A property would be designated historic only with the permission of the owner. Over the years many beautiful, historic homes have been destroyed and having a method to designate them as historic buildings may have made the difference for owners interested in preserving them for future generations to enjoy. Be at the Town Courtroom at 8:00 p.m. on Monday, July 20th. If you wish to support the ordinance, all you have to say is "I support an historic ordinance". See ordinance.

At a meeting today with the Grand Island Town Board, Gus Macker promoter Corey McGowan did not get the resolution he was hoping for. Representatives from NYS Police, Erie County Sheriff's Office, NFTA, Town Police, Executive Investigation Security and the Town Board discussed their concerns about staging the basketball tournament, August 29 & 30th. Parking and patrolling parking areas is an area of concern. Although the security contract calls for 20 armed, on site police, the local police agencies (Sheriff, NYS Police, Town Police) will be operating on a normal detail due to staffing at a Buffalo Bills game and the New York State Fair that day.

Island Tid-Bits...
DeSignet Jewelry, 1869 Whitehaven will be closed Saturday, July 4th and Monday, July 6th for the holiday weekend.
In observance of Independence Day, Island Shipping will be closing the store at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 3rd and re-open Monday, July 6th at 10:00 a.m.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy anniversary to Barbara & Richard Brzyski, married on June 30, 1962.

Pattie Frentzel wrote that her mom, Barb Anderson is recuperating from heart surgery that took place on Monday, June 22nd. Prayers and cards would be most appreciated, send to 604 B Robin Road, Ormond Beach, FL 32176

Congratulations to Airman Ashley K. Swiantek who has graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. Ashley is a GIHS graduate and the daughter of Annette & Peter Swiantek.

Bible Presbyterian Church, 1650 Love Road, is hosting a children's vacation bible school starting Monday, June 29th - Friday, July 3rd. The morning program is titled "Operation Space" and is for ages 4 - through entering 5th grade. It runs from 9:30 a.m. - noon. A evening program is geared toward youth ages grade 6 - 12, titled "The End of Shame" and takes place from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
See flyer.

The 90 West Band kicks off the Summer Concert Series this Friday night at the Town Commons. The event is from 6:00pm - 11:00pm and will feature food, beer, wine and live music all night. Movies in the Park starts on Saturday with "Penguins of Madagascar at 9pm and Anchor Man at 11pm. Both events are free admission.

Island Tid-Bits...
Governor Cuomo has designated this weekend, June 27-28th as a free fishing weekend in New York State and the Town is sponsoring a fishing contest on Saturday. See details.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Relay for Life team "Stomp it Out" will be providing food for purchase at the Lawn Mower Race on Saturday along West River. They will be selling Hamburgers/Cheesburgers, Hot Dogs, Italian Sausage w/green peppers/onions & Polish Sausage. So bring an appetite to the races.

Get ready to read! The Grand Island Memorial Library, 1715 Bedell Road is having a Bike Drawing this summer from July 1st - August 13th. Two bikes will be awarded on the final day, picked from entries earned by reading See details.

The Grand Island Community Education Summer Enrichment Program is offering the following classes for grades 9-12: 4-Hour ACT Boot Camp, 4-Hour SAT Boot Camp, Writing the College Application Essay, Theatre Workshop and Strength and Conditioning. To register
click here then on "webstore" in first column.

Included in an article titled "The Bedell House, Grand Island" (1880), was an article dated May 6, 1871 from the "Buffalo Commercial Advertiser". It read; "Grand Island...shows the best health record of any place in the United States. The ratio of deaths for a year, as shown by the returns, is seven in a living population of eleven hundred and twenty-six; and we are informed by the assistant marshal that two of these deaths were not properly attributable to the island, one of them being young Webb, who was drowned with Mr. Crocker here in the city (Buffalo), and the other a young man brought from Ohio in the last stages of consumption; so that the mortality due to the island is only five in a living population of eleven hundred and twenty-six!" It goes on to say "Why need the sick go to the ends of the earth in search of health? If any of our readers are sick, and are not ready or willing to die, let them go to Grand Island and live." This page was found in the New York Public Library Digital Collection.

Island Tid-Bits...
The GI Community Chorus has planned a summer concert on July 21st. If you would like to sing with the group, contact Jim Watz at 773-5075. Rehearsals will be held on Tuesday evenings at St. Timothy Lutheran Church.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The annual Father's Day Lawnmower Race/Run/Classic Car Show will be on West River on Saturday, June 20th.

The Great Water Walk is Saturday, June 20th at Beaver Island at 9:00 a.m.
The GI American Legion Post #1346 meeting is Wednesday, June 24th at 7:00 p.m. at the Loyal Order of The Moose Lodge
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.

Congratulations to Alley Cutting named NFL Pitcher of the Year for the second time. Congratulations also go out to the GI Vipers 14U softball team on winning the "Lewiston Battle of the Fort" Tournament held last weekend and to VCMS Modified Softball team on having an undefeated NFL season.

Does anyone remember a tornado that touched down in Grandyle Village on July 7, 1961 at 2:45 p.m.? It was a Class F2 (max. wind speeds 113-157 mph) and traveled directly east to Amherst at what is now the University of Buffalo North Campus. Send your stories to jodi@giecom.net or call 773-6789. Check out the map on the Tornado History Project website.

The Grand Island history book "Images of America-Grand Island", brought back the very sharp memory of Wilma MacDonald Greenwood this past week. She stopped in to DeSignet Jewelry and while there named all 19 of her classmates from the 1944 Sidway graduating class, from a photo on page 115. If anyone has photos, memorabilia or wants to share stories of the past, don't wait until it's too late. It would be a shame to lose any part of Grand Island history. Please use the contact information above.

Erie County Sheriff Timothy B. Howard reports Deputies issued 442 tickets during the national seatbelt awareness mobilization from May 18 thru May 31st. During the 14 day period, there were 90 total crashes, including one fatal and 15 personal injury crashes. Deputies also issued tickets for speeding, aggressive driving, cell phone use and other vehicle and traffic violations.

Island Tid-Bits...
Say Cheese Pizza, 1771 Love Road is having a Yuengling Beer Tasting at 6:00 p.m. this Saturday, June 13th.
The Niagara Falls Music & Art Festival is this weekend on Old Falls Street, hours are 4 to 11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Dick & Jenny's will be offering shrimp boil and jambalaya all day Saturday at the beer tent.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy wedding anniversary Jim and Laury Linenfelser on June 7th and to Kevin & Amanda Brady on June 10th.

Thinking about summer activities for the kids? Summer Programs at the GI Memorial Library include reading for all ages. See the Summer Program schedule. The Town Recreation Department Summer Program sign up is Saturday, June 13th, check out the schedule.

Grand Island's own Corey McGowan has plans to keep you busy over the summer. There is to be live music on Fridays and Movies on Saturday nights at the Town Commons. A GI Garden Tour on July 18th, another Lawn Mower Race on August, 8th, Bands Brews and BBQ at Beaver Island on September 12th and Taste of GI at the Commons on Ocotber 3rd.

There seems to be much hullabaloo regarding the possibility that a MAC Basketball Tournament is coming to Grand Island at the end of August. It is not a done deal until all the i's are dotted and t's are crossed, and that hasn't happened yet.

Island Tid-Bits...
The Old Bedell Grille, 1437 Ferry Road at the East River, is open and serving daily from 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. They have hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, clams, lobster rolls, shaved ice and lots more.
Sunday, June 7th is opening day for Miracle League teams at 2:00 p.m.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy wedding anniversary Pattie & Mark Frentzel on May 30th and to Doug & Janet Saltzman on June 2nd.

Starting on May 27th the Athletic Field and the Track at the High School are off limits as they are both having work done to them. The work will continue for three weeks.

There are Manufacturing and Customer Service positions available at Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Staley Road. Please apply on line at http://careersat.thermofisher.com/.

New this year at the Grand Island Relay For Life on Saturday, May 30th, the "Ultimate Lip Sync Battle Royale" will start at 10:30 p.m. and go until singers are sung out. Teams and individuals will be provided with instruments and props and it is FREE!

The GIHS Class of 1980 has planned a 35th Reunion. Nancy Hoover Anderson wrote that the GIHS Class of 1980 has planned a 35th reunion. See details. All reported reunions are listed on the front page at the bottom of the third headline column.

Island Tid-Bits...
Remember...the Island Ship Center will be closed June 3rd through June 9th so Fahim can go to a conference.
Sunday, May 31st is opening day for Miracle League teams at 2:00 p.m.
TC's Island Bar & Grill has a new menu, take a look and be prepared to drool! Menu.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy 52nd wedding anniversary James and Ann Samplinski, married May 24, 1963 at the Niagara Falls Courthouse. Happy anniversary to John and Ginger Bidell, celebrating their fourth anniversary on May 27th.

Kaegebein PTA is asking for books to share with their students. They need gently used elementary level books. Donating a book or even a small bag of books isn't only a nice way to clean up a bookshelf at home, but a great way to share favorite books with younger students. Every Kaegebein student will have the chance to choose 'new' books that another student has shared. Books can be dropped off at the Library, through Monday, June 1st.

The Island Ship Center will be starting Summer hours on Tuesday, May 26th. They are: Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., closed Fridays from 1-3:00 p.m. The store will be closed June 3rd through June 9th so Fahim can go to a conference.

The High School is looking for parent volunteers (preferably underclassman parents, but senior parents are welcome) for the Senior Celebration held after prom on Friday, May 29th, between 10:30 pm and 3:30 am. If you are able to help in any way, volunteering either time or giving a donation toward the event,
please contact either Bob Simpson at robertsimpson@grandislandschools.org or Sara Silvestri at sarasilvestri@grandislandschools.org.

Congratulations to new School Board trustees, Joy LaMarca and Richard D'Agostino and to Glenn Bobeck, back for another term.

Island Tid-Bits...
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection plans to hire 1,600 agents by Sept. 30th. The job listing is now open on USAJOBS until May 31st.
The "British Invasion Band" will play this Saturday night, May 23rd at River Oaks! Enjoy live music by The Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Who and many more.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The Grand Island Historical Society is having a yard sale on Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th at 2020 Fix Road (corner of Baseline) from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. The new Grand Island Book, Images of America, will be available to purchase.

The Daniel McBride Memorial Cup will be held on Sunday, May 17th at 4:00 p.m. at the Harborcenter in downtown Buffalo. This 3rd annual Relay for Life Hockey Game raises funds for the Grand Island Relay for Life and is in memory of Dan McBride who lost his battle with cancer February 1st. Tickets are $5 and there will be raffles, 50/50's and giveaways. See flyer for details.

Congratulations to Vicki Harnden, a senior team manager for tastefullysimple. She was named as the top in tasting party sales for the month of March in the company news magazine with a total of $2,458 in sales.

Two Grand Island bowlers topped the leaderboard after the first night of qualifying Tuesday in the 52nd annual George A. Obenauer Masters Tournament at AMF Airport lanes. Michael Johnson posted a four-game block of 908 including games of 248 and 242. That was two pins better than another Islander, Mike Mallwitz, who shot a 266 game in his 906 round. As of today, Mike Johnson remains in first place and Mike Mallwitz is in 4th place.

School Budget/trustee vote is Tuesday May 19th. You will be voting on the budget, choosing three trustees, acquire various school buses and vehicles, and to expend therefore an amount not to exceed $650,000, offer a school tax exemption on the primary residence of eligible veterans residing within the school district;. If you plan ahead you can purchase a Krolick's Chicken dinner from the Class of 2018. Presale tickets are $9 and are available from Rachael Grabek in the HS Library (ext. 8887 or rachaelgrabek@grandislandschools.org or from any class of 2018 officer. Limited dinners will be available for $10 at the door.

Island Tid-Bits...
If you missed the School Board Candidates night on Tuesday, you can see it here.

The second annual Playground & Relay for Life-Huth's Heroes Adrian's fundraiser will be on Thursday, May 14th, 5-8 pm at Adrian’s Custard and Beef. 10% of sales will be donated back.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Thanks to Randy White who wrote in that former Island resident Sam Aswad celebrated his 90th birthday recently in Phoenix, Arizona. Sam was a longtime resident of the Sandy Beach area. He has lived in Arizona for over 25 years. As you can see, Sam is still a sprightly fellow.

Relay for Life team Mallwitz Cancer Crew is hosting a Chicken BBQ by BW's Barbecue on Saturday, May 9th from 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Road. There will be a basket raffle, music, 50/50, bake sale and hot dogs.

Celebrate Mother's Day at the Town Cafe, 2352 Grand Island Blvd. and enjoy brunch with Mom from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm on Sunday, the cost is $10.99. This will be the last brunch for a while as the Town's hours change back to lunch and dinner on Sundays for the visitors over the summer season.

If you happen to be doing some spring cleaning, think about donating items to the Golden Age Center for their Gram's Garage Sale on May 16th at the Nike Base. You can drop off your donations Monday-Friday, 8am-3pm.

Island Tid-Bits...
Looks like Grand Island is hosting the Gus Macker Basketball Tournament, August 29th & 30th on Grand Island Blvd. between Whitehaven and Baseline Roads. Over 400 teams are expected to play over the two days.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The first of several public meetings over the next twelve months will take place at 6:30 p.m., tonight, April 30th at the Town Hall, 2255 Baseline Road. The meeting will give an overview of the town-wide revaluation project, and give a timeline for the residents and businesses to follow, as well as give the property owners the opportunity to ask any questions or concerns they may have.

Show your support for the Grand Island Relay For Life by stopping at DeSignet Jewelry, 1869 Whitehaven, and purchasing a purple ribbon. While your at it...Mother's Day is next week and there are hundreds of items at DeSignet that Mom would love!

Congratulations to GIHS sophomore Bryce Jellinick on pitching a no-hitter over Niagara Wheatfield on Wednesday, winning 8-0. That leaves the two teams tied for second place in the Niagara Frontier League behind Niagara Falls.

Fantasy Island is opening on May 9th, for weekends only, until June 15th. There are two new rides this year; the one in Kiddieland replaces the old Jack & The Beanstalk ride and the Rock 'n Roll Musik Express for older kids and adults in the main area of the park.

The Grand Island Central School District Board of Education invites all community members to attend the Transportation Center Groundbreaking Ceremony on Friday, May 8th at 9:30 a.m. at the current Transportation Center, 2451 Baseline Road.

The historical book "Images of America: Grand Island" will be available at Town Hall, 2255 Baseline Rd., on Tuesday, May 5th from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. See flyer. Authors Gerald Carpenter and June Justice Crawford will be available to sign your book. The book is also available in the Isledegrande office, 1871 Whitehaven, Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm. The GI Historical Society will receive proceeds from each book sold at these two options.

Island Tid-Bits...
Congratulations to Gillman Clarke retiring from the Town of Grand Island in May after 30 years of employment.
Grand Island's share of the Erie County Mortgage Tax for the period of October 1, 2014 - March 31, 2015 is estimated to be $205,125.19 and should be distributed May 15th.
Moms play mini golf for free on Mothers Day - Sunday, May 10th at the Grand Island Fun Center.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Erie County Legislator Kevin Hardwick honored the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce's 2015 Citizen of the Year Awards honorees with county proclamations at the April 16th session. Legislator Hardwick extends his congratulations to: Daniel C. Drexelius - Community Service Person of the Year; Mark Gorton - Educator of the Year; Michael Ludwig - Business Person of the Year; Paul Edward Robinson - Civic Person of the Year; Flower A Day - Business of the Year; and West River Lawnmower Race - Organization of the Year.

The May 2nd Lawn Mower Race "Celebrity Racers" have been announced. Father's Day West River Lawnmower Race founder Floyd Doring will be racing against West River Road resident and longtime racer Jim Mazza at the event. All proceeds will benefit the new Kaegebein Playground.
See flyer for details.

It's official. The Robert Wynne family of Grand Island received their 2015 Toyota Camry, one of three cars given away in the Tim Horton's Roll Up The Rim contest. Across the country, over 15 million cups were sold and two of the cars were won here in western New York. The other car was won at the Pine Avenue store in Niagara Falls. Congratulations!

Don't miss Grand Island's Largest Disco, this Saturday night at River Oaks. Enjoy live music from Buffalo's best disco band, Disco Duck. Showtime is 8:00 p.m. and the party goes all night with great food from Ellden's at River Oaks. Tickets are $10, for reserved seating call River Oaks at 716 341 1040.

Island Tid-Bits...
Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Tuesday that $14 million will be invested in Western New York for parks and historic sites. $2 million is going to Beaver Island State Park to rebuild the golf shop.
The Gitdrum Bros. will be playing acoustic music at Say Cheese on Saturday, April 25th from 9pm-12pm.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

New York State Parks Department is hosting a guided evening walk titled "Night Buckhorn Swamp People" through Buckhorn Island State Park on Friday, April 24th from 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Call 549-1050 for information and registration.

A benefit for the Ken Kalinowski family will be held on Saturday, April 25th at at the Knights of Columbus. Flyer.

Paint the Town Purple Day in support of the Relay For Life of Grand Island is at the Town Commons on Saturday, April 25th. Purple ribbons will be available at First Niagara Bank and DeSignet Jewelers, 1869 Whitehaven while supplies last.

The Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner is Monday, April 27th at the GIHS, 100 Ransom Road, see flyer.

The GI American Legion Post #1346 meeting is Wednesday, April 29th at 7:00 p.m. at the Loyal Order of The Moose Lodge 2524 Grand Island Blvd.

As of Wednesday there was more than 850 square miles of ice on Lake Erie, meaning the boom will not come out any time soon. The latest ice boom opening was May 3, 1971. Last year, the boom opening began April 29th. Under the International Joint Commission's current order, the ice boom must be opened by April 1 - unless there is more than 250 square miles of ice remaining in the eastern end of the lake.

Twenty members of the Niagara County 4-H Club, part of the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County, recently faced off against their Erie County counterparts, and were tested on their knowledge of all types of horses and horse information. Islanders who took part in the event were; Isabelle Hillestad, 12, part of a second place finishing Junior Division Team and Katie Grace Hillestad, 9, on a 4th place finishing Junior Division Team.

Free Prom Dress Weekend is here. Shoppers are welcome to select one free dress from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 18 and from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 19 at Performing Arts Dance Academy, 206 Lake St., Hamburg. A limited number of shoes have been donated by ShoeFly and Dyed To Match, and handmade earrings were donated by The Bead Gallery. Shoes and jewelry will also be available for free. For additional information or to contact Legislator Dixon, please call (716) 858-8671 or email lynne.dixon@erie.gov.

New York State Parks Department is hosting a guided evening walk titled "Night Buckhorn Swamp People" through Buckhorn Island State Park on Friday, April 24th from 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. They say "explore eerie nighttime sounds from the swamps - nightjars, screech owls and leopard frogs, for starters." Call 549-1050 for information and registration.

The Grand Island Men's Golf Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year looking for new members. The once a month, 18 hole tournaments are held at Beaver Island. Members will receive a USGA handicap and the ability to play in the WNY pub-links events. For more information contact Paul Krull at 909-4634.

Island Tid-Bits...
Beaver Island Golf Course is shooting for a Friday, April 24th opening date. You can make reservations at 773-4668. Rates are listed as (9) $11-12/(18) $18-22. Go to www.nysparks.com/golf-courses for more information.
Check out this easy to read GIHS Spring Athletic Schedule.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy birthday today to Rhett Robinson, Becca Zimmerman, Wayne Kinney and Carolyn Marble. Happy birthday on Saturday, April 11th to Roman Jurga and on Sunday, April 12th to Amy Bidell DeRego & Ted Pawlowski.
A very, very happy birthday to Betty Killian turning 92 years young on Monday, April 13th. Happy birthday to Dan
Robinson, Nicholas Aronica and John Leszczak on Wednesday, April 15th

Best wishes to Gene and JoAnn Hasselbeck, celebrating their 63rd wedding anniversary on April 12th. Happy 49th wedding anniversary to Paul and Jean Leiner on Wednesday, April 15th.

DeSignet Jewelry, 1869 Whitehaven has made thousands of items for fans of the "Outlander" series of books over the past few years. The Starz televison network began the second half of the first season on April 4th, which made Monday a busy day at the jewelry store. The series, in 16 episodes, covers all of the first book written by Diana Gabaldon. A second season has been ordered and will tell the story of "Dragonfly in Amber", book two of the series. Check out The Authors Attic to see the beautiful items hand crafted by Reg Schopp and his staff.

Grand Island will have its own history book available for purchase in May. The Images of America series book, "The Town of Grand Island" was written by West River Road resident June Justice Crawford and Dr. Gerald Carpenter. It will have hundreds of old images of the people and places important to Grand Island history. A reception and book signing will take place this spring.

GI Soccer Club House Registration is April 1st - May 5th. Programs are for boys and girls from 6-19 years of age.
See website for more information.

The GIHS PTSA 31st Annual Plant Sale is now accepting orders.
100% of funds raised support the PTSA Scholarship Program.
Orders must be in by Tuesday, April 28th. See order form for complete details.

Island Tid-Bits...
Islander and D'Youville freshman Brock Tetreault was named Alleghany Mountain Collegiate Conference men's volleyball player of the week. Tetreault produced 40 kills in four weekend games, including 16 against Cal-Santa Cruz.
The Relay for Life Bowl-A-Thon takes place on Sunday, April 19th at Mallwitz's Island Lanes. This is a kids only event. See flyer.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Congratulations to Christina & John Michael Podlucky on the birth of their baby girl Mackenzie Nicole on Tuesday, March 31st!

Erie County Sheriff Deputies Bradley Girdler and Brandon Stott received the William G. Payne Patrol Services Award for their rescue of a person trapped inside a burning vehicle on Whitehaven Road last September. Stott used a fire extinguisher to attack the flames while Girdler worked to free the victim, first trying to pry open a door on the heavily damaged vehicle. Stott had emptied two extinguishers and was continuing to fight the fire with a third when Girdler was able to break out a window; both deputies removed the victim through the window and began first aid. The award was presented on Saturday, March 28th at the annual Badge and Shield Club dinner.

The Grand Island School District budget received great news this week. A 10.20% increase in the overall budget from the state in the amount of $15,317,787.

Stock up for the holiday at Acetis's Wine & Spirits. Not only is Aceti's having a case sale where you can make your own 20% off wine case and
10% off liquor case, they are open on Easter from noon till 7:00 p.m.!

The NCLL (National College Lacrosse League) is a men's collegiate Lacrosse association that consists of over 120 teams in twelve conferences throughout 15 states. Brockport senior Liam Dodd was named co-player of the week in the Empire West Conference (Brockport 3-1), with 5 goals and 3 assists over Buffalo State and 1 assist vs. Clarkson in last weekend's games. So proud of my boy!

Island Tid-Bits...
Island resident Kelly Remington got voted off "Survivor: Worlds Apart" on Wednesday, April 1st. There were two contestants that should have been chosen except for the interference of the Immunity Challenge winner and the Immunity Idol.
Say Cheese Pizza is hosting "Parrot Karaoke" with John Dudley on Friday, April 3rd from 9:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Happy anniversary to Rosemary and Bruce Wojick on Tuesday, March 31st.

There will be a dedication of artwork on Monday, March 30th at the Grand Island High School Viking Mall at 6:30 p.m. The artwork "Perilous Flow" - A Gift of the River Reuniting Bonds Between Friends, Grand Island High School and the Niagara Region was created by Grand Island graduate Neil Tetkowski (Class of 1973) and donated to Grand Island High School by Bill Whitford (Class of 1972) in honor of his brother, Bruce Whitford (Class of 1975).

Congratulations to this year's Chamber Citizens of the Year. Organization: West River Lawnmower Race - Floyd Doring;
Business Person: Mike Ludwig; Community Service: Dan Drexelius; Civic: Paul Robinson; Business of the Year: Flower A Day - Sue Berger; Educator: Mark Gorton.

Grand Island is one of 388 school districts across the country, recognized by the NAMM Foundation (National Association of Music Merchants) "for their outstanding commitment to music education with a Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) designation." Nice job GI!

Some interesting North Bridge notes: the original bridge was built in 1935 for $1.5 million. The second span built in 1962 cost $7.7 million. In a 21 year time span, from 1989-2008, over $59 million was spent on the North Bridges. It was estimated in 2012 that 57,000 cars crossed the North Bridges daily. Temperatures have to be 40 degrees and rising to work with the concrete and there is a $1000 a minute fine for each minute over the 6:00 a.m. opening each day during the rehab project.

There are going to be many events at the Marion Klingel Town Commons in 2015. They are:

It appears that Anthony Cutaia's luxury apartment plan for the Light House Point project at East River and Whitehaven Roads is being replaced by Meadow Creek Estates. Meadow Creek is a 31 acre development of 232 upscale, attached multifamily units, located across from Howard M. Sexton Electric on Grand Island Blvd. The Zoning Board will be discussing a variance needed for sign placement and building height at their April 2nd meeting.

Island Tid-Bits...
Just in case you didn't catch the Letters to the Editor last week, check out Nancy Anderson's letter "One Plate at a Time" and help out the McMahon family.
Hizair Hair Salon is moving to Webster Street in North Tonawanda with a planned opening date of May 1st.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Huth Road Elementary School will be presenting a special night of inspirational singing in a "GI Sings for Hope Concert" to be held Wednesday, April 1, 2015 in the Grand Island High School Auditorium at 7:00 p.m.

Bible Presbyterian Church, 1650 Love Road is having a Holy Week Service on Wednesday, April 1st at 7:00 p.m.

Bible Presbyterian Church, 1650 Love Road is having a Holy Week Service on Thursday, April 2nd at 7:00 p.m.

Historical Society meeting is Thursday, April 2nd at 7:30 p.m at River Lea.

Congratulations to Fahim Mojawalla of Island Ship Center. He was recently chosen to be interviewed by the FedEx FASC marketing team to provide peer insight into growing the shipping business. There are over 2700 FedEx Authorized Ship Centers in the country and they picked Fahim for peer advice to his fellow store owners. His topic was "Getting customers into the door" and his response was simple: "Be yourself, be different, provide outstanding service and an experience that your clients will remember, cherish and come back for time and again." See article.

For those looking to do some Spring cleaning...
The 6th annual Prom Dress Drive hosted by Erie County Legislator Lynne M. Dixon and Urban Valet dry cleaners will continue through March 27th. The donated dresses - which will be professionally cleaned, free of charge, by Urban Valet cleaners - are being made available to local high school girls who are in need of a dress for prom or special occasion. The closest drop off location is Urban Valet, 620 Elmwood in Buffalo. Girls are welcome to select one free dress from 3 to 6 p.m. April 18th or from noon to 3 p.m. April 19th at the Performing Arts Dance Academy, 206 Lake St., Hamburg.

Island Tid-Bits...
Call 773-7508 for emergency services from your cell phone. If you call 911 your call is sent off Island which may add time to response from emergency services.
The Saffire Grill has closed on Grand Island Boulevard.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

A very special birthday wish to Ralph Hoover celebrating his 87th birthday tomorrow, March 13th. Ralph stayed home all winter for the first time in 15 years and could use a "pick-me-up". Send a card with well wishes to 3458 Wallace Drive.

Eileen LaMarca wrote in that her brother, Tom Murphy (GIHS 1990), a reporter for the Associated Press, will be in town next week with his family for his wife's book debut. She is Sarah Layden, also a journalist, writer and teacher, and her fiction book "Trip Through Your Wires" will be featured during a book signing at Talking Leaves, 3158 Main St. in Buffalo, on March 19th at 7 p.m.

Welcome to new Isledegrande advertiser Dr. Missy Mroziak and her Mobile PAWS, PLLC business. Dr. M has invested in a mobile advanced imaging unit called Vimago which can be shared with nearby veterinary clinics. She also has an online pet store where flea and tick applications and foods may be purchased. Her policy is to contribute to the community by giving back 25% of the stores net purchases. The next quarter (April-June) will be dedicated to donating to the GI Relay for Life team "Stomp it Out". See webpage for details.

Lynn Marston Dingey invites you to her event, "Band & Baskets for Relay For Life", on Saturday, March 21st at 6:00 p.m. at Mallwitz's Island Lanes. The band "Wide Right" will play from 8:00 p.m. - midnight and a basket raffle will take place from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has scheduled the 49th annual Citizen of the Year awards dinner on Thursday, April 23rd at Byblos Niagara. If you would like to recognize an individual or a business that have given greatly to the community, see the nomination form. The deadline is now March 16th at 5:00 p.m. Don't miss this opportunity to nominate your friend, neighbor or family member for this honor.

Frank Budwey of Budwey's Supermarket is having a HUGE one day sale on Saturday, March 14th from 6am-10pm at the 535 Division Street, NT store. Check out his
Facebook page to see the great deals.

Island Tid-Bits...
THE BEST NEWS!!! Adrian's Custard & Beef is opening on Tuesday, March 17th at 11:00 a.m. Look on their Facebook page for new ice cream flavors.
Rock on the Island Concert Series presents the "Strictly Hip" at a St. Patty's Day party at Ellden's at River Oaks on Friday, March 13th. The event includes music, Irish brews, Irish food, green beer and Irish dancers. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and admission is $10. See flyer.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The Zonta Club of Grand Island will be awarding four scholarships in three categories this year at their annual awards dinner on June 23, 2015. There are two scholarships for high school seniors, one for a female between 18 - 25 and one for a woman over 25 for career advancement. Check out the full details here. The Zonta Club is having its annual Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon on Sunday, April 19th at the Buffalo Launch Club. Tickets are $25 and are available at Flower A Day Florist.

Grand Island Supervisor Mary Cooke is hosting the Erie County Clerk's "Thank A Vet" Discount Program Outreach Event at the Nike Base Community Center, Friday, March 27th from 1-3:30pm. This program allows vets to receive discounts at over 1000 Erie County Businesses. See flyer for details.

The Grand Island Lawn Mower Racing Series has scheduled a Spring event at the Town Commons on Saturday, May 2nd. There will also be a Chili, Chowder & Soup Cook-off. Local restaurants and organizations are invited to participate as over 1000 patrons are expected to attend. The event fee will go to the Kaegebein Playground Fundraising project and all revenue generated at your booth is yours to keep. See application.

Island Tid-Bits...
The Golden Age Center is looking for a Part Time Kitchen Assistant. Enjoying working with the senior population is a MUST for the ideal candidate. See details.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Joe Frailey, came in 3rd place in the 600 meter race at the Section 6 State qualifiers on Friday, Feb. 20th. He also broke the school record. Katie Tuohy, came in 2nd place in the Race Walk. Both sophomores have qualified to go the State Finals that will be held at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY on March 6 & 7. Way to go Katie & Joe!! Grand Island is proud of you both! Thanks to mom Cheryl Frailey for the update.

The point of the proposed Historic Preservation Ordinance is not, as some would have you believe, to tell property owners what they can and cannot do to their buildings. Owners must agree with the suggested designation if a property is considered. The bottom line is that without a local law, available funding for maintenance from foundations and government agencies cannot be utilized. A public hearing is scheduled for Monday, March 2nd at 8:00 p.m. regarding the ordinance. See Historic Preservation Ordinance.

The 82nd annual Buffalo News Spelling Bee will take place on March 8th at the Buffalo History Museum.
Veronica E. Connor Middle School sixth grade student, Hannah Schiffmacher, is one of 20 students competing. A written test was given on February 4th to 61 school champions to see who would compete in the oral finals. The winner will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. for the Scripps; National Spelling Bee in May. Great work Hannah!

The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has scheduled the 49th annual Citizen of the Year awards dinner on Thursday, April 23rd at Byblos Niagara. If you would like to recognize an individual or a business that have given greatly to the community, see the nomination form. The deadline is March 6th.

Enter the Healthy Playground Makeover Sweepstakes today and every day through Thursday, March 19, to give Kaegebein a chance to win one of two grand prizes, including a $30,000 grant or a new playground. One of the grand prize winners will be chosen from among all eligible entries. A second grand prize winner will be chosen from a special drawing for Title I Schools, like Kaegebein.

GIHS seniors Meaghan O'Leary and Mark McKenna were honored by the Niagara Police Athletic League at their Sports Award dinner and received a trophy in recognition of success on the field, in the classroom and in the community.

Island Tid-Bits...
Verizon Wireless has recently added 4G XLTE technology to the Grand Island cell site to "meet growing demand and to provide faster peak speeds for people downloading and uploading data". It supposedly doubles the bandwidth.
Alan Pergament in his "Talkin TV" column in the Buffalo News, has a nice article on Grand Island resident and Survivor contestant Kelly Remington. See article.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

The Real Barbers II at the Grand Island Plaza has announced that Jesse Ciffa, "Barber Chief" of Grand Island, has recently joined their barbershop, 2379 Grand Island Blvd, next to M & T Bank. The shop specializes in flat tops, kids cuts, military cuts and hot towel shaves. Jesse is a 2012 graduate of GIHS and is studying Sports Management at Niagara University.

2012 GIHS graduate Megan Karpie is a junior at RIT and is headed to the "Tiger Trail" run in Auburn, Alabama on March 21st. The 1,400 mile run is eight-days in duration and each participant runs three-mile shifts. The run is a benefit for the "Tigers for Tigers" coalition.

I came across a website called City-Data.com. The site claims to have "detailed, informative profiles of all cities in the United States." There is quite a bit of information on the page and some that surprised me, for instance, 77% of the Island is Catholic, and 30% of the Island is of German ancestry. There is much more at the site, makes for a interesting read.

Island Tid-Bits...
The Town of Grand Island is seeking a Dog Control Officer to work at least one weekend each month and to fill in other shifts as needed. Please submit a letter of interest and a resume to: townboard@grand-island.ny.us or mail to: Town Supervisor, 2255 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072. Information received by 5:00 p.m. on February 25th will be considered.
Economic Development Advisory Board has two openings to fill the remainder of terms expiring 12/31/15 and 12/31/16.Submit a letter of interest and a resume to: townboard@grand-island.ny.us or mail to: Town Supervisor, 2255 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072. Information received by 5:00 p.m. on February 25th will be considered.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Click for larger view.

The new Grand Island Parks Department Maintenance building is under construction off of Bedell Road near Veteran's Park. The pre-engineered metal building is being built by Tedesco Construction of Niagara Falls. I ran into President Jeff Tedesco at the site and he reported that the framing began on Tuesday and the building should be finished in six weeks.

The Section VI Division I wrestling championships/state qualifier is Saturday at Lake Shore. Island wrestlers mentioned in a Buffalo News story include Scott Holmes, a Class A champion in the 182 class and Ben Wright, at 195 lbs, is 38-5 and the Class A champion. Good luck guys!

Kara is in blue shirt. Click for larger view.

Grand Island's famous photo bomber Kara Dudley was in last night's episode of Law & Order SVU.
Mom Lisa Dudley wrote that she saw her four times in the last scene of the program.

Our family enjoyed the Town Cafe brunch last Sunday. It is available from 10-2:30 p.m. and has all kinds of breakfast and lunch items to satisfy everyone in your party. Kudos to Nick Rossi in the kitchen! He made sure we left fat and happy. The cafe is located at 2352 Grand Island Blvd. across from Adrian's. They also have a special Valentine's Dinner for Two on Saturday.

Island resident Mike Dollendorf is the owner of Roy's Plumbing and was quoted in a story in the Buffalo News today on cold weather tips. Mike said to "keep your house warm", "if anything, turn the thermostat up a little bit". You can also open cabinets, vanities and closets that have pipes in them. If you have an area prone to freezing, keep the taps at a slow drip.

Island Tid-Bits...
Our favorite shipping expert, Fahim Mojawalla, reported that one of his customers won a car at the Tim Horton's by the bridge this week. That is amazing...I can't even win a donut!

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Don't Miss it! The final presentation of "Two Small Islands in the Mighty Niagara" will be on Saturday, February 7th at the Buffalo Launch Club. There will be seven of the "most knowledgeable and interesting story tellers", video and photos of Strawberry and Motor Boat Islands. The story tellers include; President of the GI Historical Society Curt Nestark, BLC Historian Tom Frauenheim, Niagara River Historian and Ecologist Paul Leuchner, Gary Kenline - family owned Motor Boat for many years, NY Power Authority Rep. David Frazier and Marine Contractors Jeff & Lyle Dinsmore. Reservations are required. Dinner begins at 6:30 and the presentation starts at 8:00 p.m. See flyer and don't delay, call 773-7629.

I spoke with Dan Stedman today and he has been very busy giving TC's Lounge a facelift, inside and out. Among the changes planned are new furniture and bar, new bathrooms, additional draft beers for the craft beer and IPA enthusiasts and a larger menu. TC's, 2241 Grand Island Blvd., has been in business for over 40 years and is open from 11am - 2am. Stop in and see what's new at TC's.

GI Supervisor Mary Cooke was sworn in as a 2015 officer of the Association of Erie County Governments on January 22nd at Salvatore's Italian Gardens. The association, which consists of local elected officials throughout Erie County, meets monthly to discuss and address common areas of interest.

The Grand Island Music Boosters have started a petition "Supporting and Promoting the Grand Island School District Music Department." The group is afraid that the music department is under consideration for cutbacks. Last year, a grant was received that saved a position set for elimination. Take a look at the full details of the petition here.

Our favorite roving photographer, Mary Stewart, submits her work to Pixoto, a photo contest site that can be found on Facebook. The photo above has garnered accolades for two years in a row. Most recently, voted best in the top 10% of the 2014 Food & Drink category. Congratulations Mary!

Island Tid-Bits...
"Shrek, the Musical" will be on stage at the Grand Viking Theater at the high school on Thursday, February 5, Friday, February 6, and Saturday, February 7th at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available at the door.
GIHS sophomore Joe Frailey came in 1st place in the 300, 600 & 1000 meter races at the 9 & 10th grade Championships held at Fredonia State on Saturday, January 31st. Congratulations!

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Congratulations to former basketball Coach Greg Ross on his induction into the North Tonawanda Basketball Hall of Fame on Friday, January 23rd. Coach Ross coached at NT from 1991-2005 and is the program's all-time leader in wins (154) and games coached (299). Coach Ross also coached basketball at GIHS for six years after leaving the NT program.

The middle school assistant principal Eleanor Payne has resigned and is headed to Silver Creek Middle School as Principal. Mrs. Payne has been at GIMS for six years and saved the life of a student in September 2013 after the student collapsed in a hall. Her quick action performing CPR, got the student breathing again. Fire officials say that Mrs. Payne's actions saved the students life.

The Buffalo News Food Editor Andrew Galarneau had an article in the January 27th edition titled "10 pizzas to pine for". Grand Island's Pizza Amore, 2024 Grand Island Blvd. was singled out for the "Prosciutto with arugula." Mr Galarneau wrote "
Known more for its mobile wood-fired pizza trailer, Pizza Amore serves up blistery-crusted pies that bridge the gap between wood-fired pizza ideals and Buffalo-standard topping payloads. It's worth taking the bridge to Grand Island for a shot at the prosciutto and arugula. It's a tomato-sauced pie that gets rather more mozzarella and prosciutto than your cardiologist would recommend. Then after it's bubbly brown it gets handfuls of arugula, and a drizzle of 18-year-old balsamic vinegar. Technically, that's a salad." I can't wait to try it.

Island Tid-Bits...
"Two Small Islands in the Mighty Niagara" is at the Buffalo Launch Club on Saturday, February 7th. This is the third presentation of a very popular program. Give the BLC a call and make a reservation, see flyer for details.
A public hearing on a 120 day moratorium on R-2 development scheduled for Monday, February 2nd should be a well attended event as thousands of residents have reportedly signed a petition against the Lighthouse Point project.
Get ready to wang chung at the year's biggest 80's Bash coming to Grand Island on Saturday January 31st. "Nerds Gone Wild" will perform all of your favorite 80's new wave and classic hits, live at River Oaks! Tickets are $10 and are available at River Oaks or by calling 716-341-1040. Don't miss it!

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

DeSignet Jewelry is recycling batteries at the store at 1869 Whitehaven. Drop off all your old household batteries from watches, AA, AAA, C, D, etc. While your at it, buy your sweety a little something as Valentine's Day is not too far away.

The Hizair Plaza at 1725 Grand Island Boulevard is currently under contract for sale to McDonald's USA LLC. The plan is to demolish the plaza and build a new restaurant on the site. Wonder what happens to the old one?

The Town of Grand Island Parks Department has just announced the positions needed to be filled for the spring & summer. Take a look at
Parks Department Job Vacancies.

Island Tid-Bits...
The former Dunlop eyesore at the north end of GI is in its final stages of asbestos removal, to the tune of $750,000. Owner Jay Patel reported that two floors of the three floor building are complete. A 90+ room hotel will be located there when the project is finished. The site has been vacant for over 25 years.

Another church break-in occured last week at Historic Trinity where nothing was reported stolen, but vandalism occured.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

2014 ALL-WNY Boys Soccer Team chosen by Western New York coaches: FIRST TEAM: Troy Brady, a junior forward from Grand Island. Had a goal and PK in win over Wmsv. East, 22 goals, 12 assists for the season, All-tourney in Sweet Home event, 2-time All-NFL, 3.3 average. First Team LARGE SCHOOL: M Joe Farrell, Grand Island senior, G Justin Figler, Grand Island senior.

Get ready for the "Rock on the Island" Winter Concert series at Ellden's at River Oaks. The first concert is this Saturday, January 17th at 8:00 p.m. and features the country group "Heritage". Next on the docket is a 80's music bash on Saturday, January 31st featuring "Nerds Gone Wild" then back to country music on Friday, February 20th featuring "90 West Band". The final concert of the series is a St. Patrick's Day celebration featuring "The Strictly Hip", with Irish food, drinks and dancers on Saturday, March 13th. Tickets to all shows are $10 per person and are available at the door.

Island Tid-Bits...
It was just announced that Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper will get a $24,482 grant from New York Sea Grant for projects targeting erosion along Grand Island's shoreline. The grant will help Riverkeeper work with shoreline property owners and town officials to improve the shoreline by providing technical and educational assistance.

The Sheriff's Office has received and responded to two church "break-ins" since December 25, 2014. The first one was on December 25th at the Bible Fellowship Center on Baseline Road. The second incident was at St. Stephen RC church on Baseline Road. Both incidences are still under investigation.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Grand Island High School sophomore Joe Frailey broke the 300 meter school record at a track meet at Fredonia State College on Saturday, January 3rd. His time was 37.6 to extinguish the old record. Congratulations Joe!

Enter the Healthy Playground Makeover Sweepstakes today and every day, for a chance to win one of two grand prizes to help Kaegebein School get a new playground. The contest is sponsored by the Together Counts program, a nationwide program inspiring active and healthy living. See Together Counts Website and Voting Page.

The GI Alumni Association Comedy Night is scheduled for Ellden's at River Oaks on Saturday, January 24th at 8pm. Doors open early for dinner, drinks and raffles. Tickets are only $20 and are available at Aceti's Wine & Spirits in Tops Plaza and DeSignet Jewelry, 1869 Whitehaven Rd. Everyone is welcome and all proceeds go to the GIHS Scholarship program.

You still have a chance to try out for the St Stephen's Parish Players shows this Saturday, January 10th. The student show is "Aladdin Jr." and the youth/adult show is "Footloose". See story for details.

So fun talking to Earl DeGlopper today after he stopped in to visit. He resides in Ft. Myers and says he gets together regularly with Don Turner, both big fans of Isledegrande. Thanks for your support!

Say Cheese, 1771 Love Road is hosting "Grand Island's Best Bartender Showdown" on Saturday, January 10th! Enjoy 12 signature cocktails from bartenders representing 12 of your favorite bars and restaurants on Grand Island! Tickets for this event are just $10 and include a signature drink from each participating bartender. The fun begins at 7:30pm and will go until about midnight. There will be a different bartender every 20-30 minutes. Tickets available at Say Cheese or by calling 716-341-1040.

Island Tid-Bits...
The Grand Island Republican party had a holiday gathering on Wednesday, January 7th at Say Cheese. Town Supervisor Mary Cooke announced her intention to seek re-election in 2015.
A resident wrote in that she saw a mama coyote and her cub right across from River Oaks on Whitehaven around 1:00pm on Sunday afternoon.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Two Grand Island High School students were named to the "All-WNY Girls Soccer First Team", they are sophomore forward Madisyn Pezzino and sophomore midfielder Marcy Barberic. Madisyn was named MVP of the NFL with a school record 47 goals. Others named to the NFL first team are Marcy Barberic - 10, Carly Bernatovicz - 12, Julia Lawley - 11, & G Meaghan O'Leary - 12. NFL second team from GI Meaghan Thomas, Sara Colon & Lexi Miller. NFL third team Hailey Randle, Rebekah Gaydosh, Giana Aiello.

If you want to talk to a human instead of dealing with the annoying auto answering set-ups at most companies, go to www.gethuman.com. I heard about it over the holidays and it not only saves time, but extreme aggravation.

Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.

Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.

Boys Basketball will play Niagara Falls at home on Tuesday, January 6th at 5:00 p.m.

Girls Basketball will play Niagara Falls away on Tuesday, January 6th at 6:30 p.m.

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